2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class

Most Mercedes-Benzes give their owners industry-leading comfort and technology. The cost of that experience is an expensive base price with expensive options and below-average reliability. The brand produces a wide variety of vehicles for the U.S., including coupes, station wagons, sedans, convertibles, and even two-seat sports cars. Its two- and three-row SUVs that we’ve tested have powerful engines and interiors that are roomy and quiet. Generally, Mercedes-Benz fit and finish, inside and out, is exceptional and helps justify prices. Mercedes-Benz’s EVs range from compact to large three-row SUVs. Across the lineup, controls for the complex climate and infotainment systems aren’t as intuitive as we find in other luxury vehicles. Like most European luxury brands, used Mercedes-Benzes can have expensive out-of-warranty repairs, although Consumer Reports has found used models with above-average reliability.

Feeling like a luxury minivan, the three-row R-Class has room for six or seven in its flexible interior. The ride is comfortable and quiet. Handling is responsive and secure, but the steering is too light. The 5.0-liter V8 returned 15 mpg overall in our tests. A 3.5-liter V6 is optional. The seven-speed automatic sometimes hesitated to downshift. Access is very easy, but the long rear doors can strike adjacent cars when swung open. The second-row seats are very roomy and comfortable, but the third-row seats are tight. When they are folded, early R-Class models could only carry four passengers; in 2008 a second-row bench seat was offered, increasing seating capacity. Fit and finish are excellent, but some controls are awkward. In 2008, the V8 was dropped and a 3.2-liter V6 diesel was added. The 2012 models marked the last year for the slow-selling R-Class.